Obituary of Raymond J Heaney, Sr.
Raymond ("Ray") J. Heaney, 89, passed away at home on Friday, April 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Philadelphia, PA, Ray grew up in Harrison, N.J. and moved to Piscataway, N.J., in 1960, where he resided for the last 65 years.
Ray was a hustler from a young age. As a child, he shined shoes, sold flowers door-to-door, and assisted with deliveries on a Pechter’s Bakery truck. He would also attend the local dances, as he had a fond love for dance and music. He also enjoyed roller skating and riding his 1955 ‘yellow’ Harley.
Ray met the love of his life, Helen Jankowski, before enlisting in the U.S. Army, where he proudly served from 1953 to 1956. Shortly after his discharge, he married Helen. They were happily married for 59 years and were blessed with three wonderful children: Raymond Jr., Ronald, and Sheryl. Ray was also a proud grandfather to Ron Jr. and Emily, and he cherished his relationships with his son-in-law Todd and daughter-in-law Penny. He had two grand puppies, Bam-Bam and Ella Rae Rose. Ella was incredibly special to Pop-Pop. She filled his days with endless love, laughter, and constant smiles.
Ray was a dedicated Ironworker, beginning his career with Local 158 in 1957 and transferring to Local 11 in Bloomfield, NJ, in 1986. He was also a lifelong parishioner of Our Lady of Fatima Church in Piscataway, where he served as an usher on Sundays, called weekly Bingo, and organized the annual Fatima Fairs. Additionally, he was a member of the Knights of Columbus in Dunellen, NJ.
Ray cherished spending time with his son-in-law, Todd, enjoying lunch outings, and taking rides in his Cadillac. He loved watching game shows, playing the slots in Atlantic City, cooking, scratching off lottery tickets, and reminiscing about the old times. Above all, he treasured being in the company of his family.
Ray is predeceased by his beloved wife, Helen (2015), his eldest son, Raymond Jr. (2014), his father, Clarence, his mother, Lillian (Reilly) Heaney-Amelung, and his four brothers, Thomas, Donald, Bernard, and Robert.
Ray is survived by his two children, Ronald Heaney and his wife Penny of Sayreville, NJ, and his daughter Sheryl and her husband Todd Ritter of Millstone Township, NJ. He also leaves behind a grandson, Ron Jr., and his fiancée Ronnie Orlowski of LeRoy, NY, as well as a granddaughter, Emily, and her husband Kevin Vogel of Freehold, NJ.
Ray's love, service, and devotion will be remembered by everyone who knew him.